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Ok, so you have a great idea, a partner or two, some cash to make it happen and you want to embark on your idea full time. First of all, good for you – it’s a big step. Something that you will most likely come across very quickly is the dynamic of working from home. This means different things for different people of course, and for those of you who can make it happen (and have your significant others ok with it too), good for you. My problem when I’m freelancing is creating separation between work time and home time (Aimee, my fiancee will tell you that – it’s tough).

An easy answer for any small business getting off the ground is to rent some co-working space at one of the many facilities in the Boston/Cambridge are.  These spots have become a popular option for young companies trying to keep costs down while being out of the house in a constructive, nurturing environment.  Then, when you begin to grow and need more space, these guys will accommodate your needs.  The best part though?  Not having to worry about ALL of the intangibles that come with having an office: Internet, phone lines, printers, fax machines, electrical/heating bills,  supplies, furniture, desks I could go on – trust me, it’s a lot of overhead and a big pain in the ass.

Enter the co-working facility, and it’s all taken care of – wrapped up in one bill, how nice is that?  So onto the players to consider:

1. Beta House – Central Square, Cambridge:

Though not a lot is know about Beta House – their website is very minimalistic (which is fine, it includes all critical information).  We do know that they are located in a Brownstone in a residential neighborhood in the Central Square area.  The space appears to be largely a social space with an open working environment, great for people who want to work amongst their peers, and have the ability to openly collaborate and have some sense of camaraderie.  Beta House appears an excellent option if you’re a solo entrepreneur looking to meet other people in your field (mostly web folks I’m hearing).  Most things I’ve heard about Beta House are overwhelmingly positive – including the price which is very reasonable at $225-$375 per month, depending on options and space you need.

2.  Cambridge CoWorking Center (@ Cambridge Innovation Center) – Kendall Square, Cambridge:

C3, as it’s referred to, is the new workplace option at Cambridge Innovation Center – a longtime leader in Boston’s temp office market.  C3 is rather similar to Beta House it would appear – with even a similar price point at $250/month – again, very reasonable.  C3 is fairly new and has gotten some great reviews thus far.  Their big brother CIC is home to some of Boston’s best startup companies, so these guys really know how to make office space work.  C3 keeps its costs down by not giving residents land lines or food or wired internet.  Another great option in an equally good location.

3.  Geek Offices - Inman Square, Cambridge and Framingham, MA:

Geek offices is brand new to the Cambridge co-working scene.  While the rates at thie spot are a little more expensive than their rivals, they maintain a huge advantage in that they offer private work space.  You can get your own cubicle for $400 per month, and have some space to work that is relatively private.  Standard amenities are included: coffee, Wi-Fi, water, kitchen, whiteboards, shared conference room, etc…Another great thing about these guys is that they’re flexible about the time and pricing you may want.  For example, if you only want space one day per week, it’s $120/month, 2 days is $200/month and full time is $400.  It’s definitely nice to consider that flexibility.  Check these guys out – the company was started by my former colleague John Smith.

BTW, here’s some funny Q & A with the Beta House guys: http://www.bostonherald.com/blogs/news/hub_20/index.php/2008/03/03/co-working-the-future-of-boston-tech/